Greetings language learners! Are you looking to expand your Korean vocabulary? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we will help you master the word “pardon” in Korean. We will cover both formal and informal ways of saying it, ensuring you have a well-rounded understanding. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say “Pardon” in Korean
In formal situations or when speaking with people older or higher in status than you, it’s important to use the appropriate level of politeness. In Korean, you can say “pardon” in a formal context as “실례합니다” (sillyehamnida) which translates to “excuse me” or “I’m sorry to bother you.”
Example sentences:
1. 실례합니다. 이 자리에 앉아도 될까요? (Sillyehamnida. I jarie anjado doelkka yo?)
Pardon me. May I sit here?2. 실례합니다. 길을 물어볼 수 있을까요? (Sillyehamnida. Gireul mureobol su isseulkka yo?)
Pardon me. Can I ask for directions?
Informal Way to Say “Pardon” in Korean
When talking to friends, family, or people younger or of the same age as you, you can use a more casual and informal way to say “pardon.” In this case, you would say “미안해” (mianhae), which means “sorry.”
Example sentences:
1. 미안해, 방금 그 말 뭐라고 했어? (Mianhae, banggeum geu mal mworago haesseo?)
Pardon me, what did you just say?2. 미안해, 지금 시간 대체 얼마예요? (Mianhae, jigeum sigan daeche eolmayeyo?)
Sorry, what time is it now?
Additional Tips and Cultural Notes
1. Non-verbal Expressions
Along with using words to say “pardon,” Koreans also rely on non-verbal expressions. One common gesture is the bow. Adjusting the depth of your bow can convey varying levels of apology or politeness.
2. Context Matters
Remember, the context in which you use the word “pardon” in Korean is important. Adjust your level of formality and politeness based on the situation and the people you are speaking to.
3. Asking for Clarification
If you didn’t catch what someone said and want them to repeat, you can use the phrase “다시 말해 주세요” (dasi malhae juseyo), which means “Please say it again.”
4. Apologizing for Interruptions
If you want to apologize for interrupting someone, you can say “말씀을 끊어 죄송합니다” (malsseumeul kkeunheo joesonghamnida), which translates to “I’m sorry for cutting you off.”
5. Regional Variations
Korean is spoken differently across regions, but the word “pardon” doesn’t vary significantly. However, there might be slight dialectal variations in pronunciation and local expressions.
In Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now learned how to say “pardon” in Korean. Use the formal form “실례합니다” (sillyehamnida) in a respectful context and the informal form “미안해” (mianhae) among friends and younger individuals. Remember to adjust your level of politeness based on the situation. Don’t be afraid to practice these phrases and gestures to become more familiar with using them naturally. Keep up the great work and enjoy your Korean language journey!
